Abstract (in English)

Listed in the 2001-2002 Heritage at Risk ICOMOS World Report, York Factory is one of the oldest and longest operated fur trade posts in North America. Located at the confluence of Hudson Bay and the Hayes River, and in operation between 1684 and 1957, York Factory played a pivotal role in history as the political, economic and social hub of western Canadian fur trade society. This cultural setting, once the repeated scene of conflict between England and France in the 17th and 18th century, is now facing the loss of its commemorative integrity. The first two York Factories, I and II, were lost to shore erosion in previous centuries. York Factory III is loosing in some locations up to one meter a year. Archaeological resources and built heritage have been lost or are at threat. Moreover, York Factory is in a permafrost region extremely sensitive to climate warming. Although we do not have a good understanding of permafrost condition at York Factory, there is growing concern that the unconsolidated and ice-rich soil could loose its strength and undermine the foundation of an historic three-storey building. This paper outlines the strategies set in place to understand the threats and to define the appropriate responses to address change and possibly loss of this cultural heritage in the face of a dynamic landscape setting.